Go on board—what and how? Had we come upon a river, a lake, had we
discovered some inland sea? Was a vessel lying at anchor in some part of the
interior of the earth?
My curiosity was worked up to the very highest pitch. My uncle made vain
attempts to restrain me. When at last, however, he discovered that my feverish
impatience would do more harm than good—and that the satisfaction of my
wishes could alone restore me to a calm state of mind—he gave way.
I dressed myself rapidly—and then taking the precaution to please my uncle,
of wrapping myself in one of the coverlets, I rushed out of the grotto.